Sister Mary Bertha (Elizabeth Loretta Hogan) died on Friday, June 1st at the Ontario Hospital, Woodstock, after an illness of some thirty three years.
Loretta Hogan, as she was known, was born in Railton, Ontario, Sept. 13, 1882. In 1913 she entered the Novitiate at St. Mary’s of the Lake. Following her profession in 1915, she remained for several years helping at the Orphanage. Sister had the reputation of being very kind and was good to the children.
Never robust she was mostly engaged in light duties, but after some years her health began to fail and around 1926 it was evident she was suffering from mental illness. She grew gradually worse until it was seen necessary to do something about it. In 1933 arrangements were made to send Sister to Montreal for treatment to St. John of God Hospital, in charge of the Sister of Providence. After a year or so she was discharged and returned to Kingston improved in health. It was only a short time after when she had to be admitted to the Rockwood Hospital. She was later transferred to the Ontario Hospital, Woodstock for the care of T.B. patients, and remained there for the rest of her life. Although she had been very ill a few times, death came rather suddenly, as stated in a phone call and letters received from the doctor. She had been prepared, having received the last rites of the church, and that meant all to her and was a consolation to her Community and friends.
Arriving by train June 2, the remains were taken to Heathfield, after which she was dressed in her religious costume and was waked in the infirmary parlor on first floor. Her brothers had been notified but were unable to come here. Several other relatives – nieces and nephews were present for the funeral.
His Grace offered Solemn Requiem, and was assisted by the Cathedral clergy. Thus after a long illness which kept her apart from her Sisters and Community was she honoured in death. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery.